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Daniel Paris, Ph.D, Head of Research & Development in ResearchGate,
The Roskamp Institute · Preclinical Research & Development, no author cited, no date
My comments: Dr Paris has published 90 publications to date and has experience in 62 areas of expertise. There are 4 tabs at the top of the page that link you to various subject matters. You can access his publications from this site. There is a wealth of information for investors of RCPI here.
Link at:
http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Daniel_Paris/publications
Angiogenesis: Potentials for Pharmacologic Intervention in the Treatment of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Chronic Inflammation in Pharmacological Review, Arjan W. Griffioen1,1 and Grietje Molema2, 1Tumor Angiogenesis Laboratory (A.W.G.), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht; 2Groningen University Institute for Drug Exploration (G.M.), Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tumor Immunology Laboratory, and Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, Groningen, The Netherlands, June 2000
Abstract:
Angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels out of pre-existing capillaries, is a sequence of events that is fundamental to many physiologic and pathologic processes such as cancer, ischemic diseases, and chronic inflammation. With the identification of several proangiogenic molecules such as the vascular endothelial cell growth factor, the fibroblast growth factors (like in FGFs), and the angiopoietins, and the recent description of specific inhibitors of angiogenesis such as platelet factor-4, angiostatin, endostatin, and vasostatin, it is recognized that therapeutic interference with vasculature formation offers a tool for clinical applications in various pathologies. Whereas inhibition of angiogenesis can prevent diseases with excessive vessel growth such as cancer, diabetes retinopathy, and arthritis, stimulation of angiogenesis would be beneficial in the treatment of diseases such as coronary artery disease and critical limb ischemia in diabetes. In this review we highlight the current knowledge on angiogenesis regulation and report on the recent findings in angiogenesis research and clinical studies. We also discuss the potentials, limitations, and challenges within this field of research, in light of the development of new therapeutic strategies for diseases in which angiogenesis plays an important role."
Article at:
http://pharmrev.aspetjournals.org/content/52/2/237.full
Angiogenesis links chronic inflammation with cancer. in PubMed,
Kobayashi H1, Lin PC., 1Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA., 2009
Abstract:
"Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from existing vessels, is tightly linked to chronic inflammation and cancer. Angiogenesis is one of the molecular events bridging the gap between inflammation and cancer. One of the events linking inflammation and cancer is an increase in cellular adhesion molecules that are expressed on the luminal surface of endothelium upon inflammation[/b]. Cellular adhesion molecules are involved in leukocyte recruitment and subsequently lead to extravasation of leukocytes to the injury site. These adhesion molecules are known to be shared by some cancer cells and have the ability to contribute to metastasis. Thus, an elevation of these molecules in chronic inflammation may be a risk factor for metastasis. In this chapter, we discuss the method used to determine the adhesion molecules expressed on endothelium, and leukocyte adhesion to endothelium."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19347298
Angiogenesis and chronic inflammation: cause or consequence? in PubMed, Costa C1, Incio J, Soares R., 1Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal., October 2007
Abstract:
"Evidence has been gathered regarding the association between angiogenesis and inflammation in pathological situations. These two phenomena have long been coupled together in many chronic inflammatory disorders with distinct etiopathogenic origin, including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, diabetes, and cancer. Lately, this concept has further been substantiated by the finding that several previously established non-inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis and obesity, display both inflammation and angiogenesis in an exacerbated manner. In addition, the interplay between inflammatory cells, endothelial cells and fibroblasts in chronic inflammation sites, together with the fact that inflammation and angiogenesis can actually be triggered by the same molecular events, further strengthen this association. Therefore, elucidating the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms that gather together the two processes is mandatory in order to understand their synergistic effect, and to develop new therapeutic approaches for the management of these disorders that cause a great deal of discomfort, disability, and in some cases death."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17457680
The codependence of angiogenesis and chronic inflammation.
Jackson JR1, Seed MP, Kircher CH, Willoughby DA, Winkler JD.,
1Department of Immunopharmacology, SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania 19406, USA., May 1997
Abstract:
"Angiogenesis is the growth of new blood vessels from existing ones. It is an important aspect of new tissue development, growth, and tissue repair. It is also a component of many diseases including cancer, blindness, and chronic inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriasis. There is considerable evidence to suggest that angiogenesis and chronic inflammation are codependent; recent studies have begun to reveal the nature of this link, which involves both augmentation of cellular infiltration and proliferation and overlapping roles of regulatory growth factors and cytokines. Through these studies, we have begun to understand the codependence of chronic inflammation and angiogenesis, the potential benefits of targeting angiogenesis in the treatment of chronic inflammation, and of targeting chronic inflammation to affect angiogenesis."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9194526
"
The Connection Between Inflammation, Angiogenesis, and Cancer in Migration Wordpress.com, Dan | January 31, 2007
Excerpt:
"Nature Reviews Cancer has an interesting opinion piece on tumor microenvironments, and how addressing cancer therapy as a problem of chronic inflamation may be an effective therapeutic framework for limiting tumor growth."
"There is a discrete order of events in physiologically acute inflammation and repair10 (Fig. 1a). However, these events become chaotically disorganized during chronic unresolved inflammation and carcinogenesis (Fig. 1b). This chaotic local microenvironment has led to the suggestion that tumours are ‘wounds that do not heal’11. The constant disruption of homeostasis by proliferating epithelial cells produces a chronic inflammatory reaction, which is an abortive attempt to re-establish homeostasis through tissue remodelling12. However, the classic players in acute inflammation (granulocytes, macrophages, endothelial cells and fibroblasts) that ordinarily lead to the resolution of a wound through an orderly series of events, instead react paradoxically to the presence of dysfunctional epithelial cells by promoting their survival and replication12. This process includes inflammatory angiogenesis."
Article at:
http://migration.wordpress.com/2007/01/31/the-connection-between-inflammation-angiogenesis-and-cancer/
Effects of Dietary Supplementation with the Solanaceae Plant Alkaloid Anatabine on Joint Pain and Stiffness: Results from an Internet-Based Survey Study in archives of National Library of Medicine., Ryan K. Lanier, Kainen D. Gibson, Amy E. Cohen, and Maria Varga, Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Gloucester, Massachusetts, USA., June 2013
My comments: Preliminary study of Osteoarthritis relief using Anatabine Citrate demonstrates high level of efficacy. (previously posted article but reposted because of Bradenton article post)
Excerpts:
"Of the 282 survey respondents, 232 (82%) reported a benefit from anatabine supplementation for one or more joint pain conditions, most commonly the knee, wrists/hands/fingers, shoulder, and back, most often due to osteoarthritis or injury to the joint"
"
US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data show that an estimated 46 million adults over age 45 have chronic joint symptoms, and 50% of the US population over age 65 will receive a diagnosis of arthritis at some time from their doctor.1 As the US population continues to age, the prevalence of musculoskeletal and joint pain disorders will continue to grow."
" In other words, no particular joint location appeared to respond to anatabine supplementation more quickly than any other. Cumulatively, 65% (70 of 107) of individuals reporting benefits for the knee responded favorably in four weeks or less, and 87% (93 of 107) reported benefits by two months (Fig. 2). For the wrists/hands/fingers, 63% (59 of 93) of individuals reported a beneficial effect in four weeks or less, and that figure reached 90% (84 of 93) within two months of starting the anatabine supplement. "
" The total numbers of individuals who rated the effects of anatabine as ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ for each of the components were: Pain—211 (91%); Stiffness—207 (89%); Functionality—212 (91%); and, Overall—218 (94%) (Fig. 4)."
"Collectively, the results from this online survey study of users of a dietary supplement containing the Solanaceae alkaloid anatabine offer evidence that this supplement provides beneficial effects for several common and often debilitating musculoskeletal ailments. Survey respondents consisted primarily of individuals who were long-term users of the supplement, but were not recruited based upon any prior knowledge of musculoskeletal effects or satisfaction with the supplement’s effects. Over 80% of the survey respondents reported joint pain benefits, suggesting that a large percentage of long-term users of this dietary supplement are using the supplement due to—and are deriving benefits for— musculoskeletal complaints."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3825642/
crooked_analyst on the clown board, From today's Article in Bradenton Herald, today
Quote:
"We've cleaned up our act," Jenkins said.
Anatabloc had been improperly marketed for Alzheimer's based on anecdotal testimonies, he said.
However, the compound within the nutritional supplement showed promise, so the company is seeking FDA permission to begin drug testing trials to develop a drug to battle osteoarthritis, Jenkins said.
"It was for the most part somewhat of a consumer nutritional supplements products company, and now we are pursuing an FDA regulatory drug pathway," Jenkins said of Rock Creek's shift as a company.
Mullan's work with Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis and other inflammatory-based diseases complement the basis of Rock Creek's anti-inflammatory developments, Jenkins added. Less"
Article at:
http://www.bradenton.com/2014/06/18/5210514/drug-company-rock-creek-relocating.html?sp=/99/179/186/
Angiogenesis: Potentials for Pharmacologic Intervention in the Treatment of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Chronic Inflammation in Pharmacological Reviews, Arjan W. Griffioen1,1 and Grietje Molema2, 1Tumor Angiogenesis Laboratory (A.W.G.), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht; 2Groningen University Institute for Drug Exploration (G.M.), Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tumor Immunology Laboratory, and Department of Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery, Groningen, The Netherlands, 2000
Abstract:
"Angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels out of pre-existing capillaries, is a sequence of events that is fundamental to many physiologic and pathologic processes such as cancer, ischemic diseases, and chronic inflammation. With the identification of several proangiogenic molecules such as the vascular endothelial cell growth factor, the fibroblast growth factors (like in FGFs), and the angiopoietins, and the recent description of specific inhibitors of angiogenesis such as platelet factor-4, angiostatin, endostatin, and vasostatin, it is recognized that therapeutic interference with vasculature formation offers a tool for clinical applications in various pathologies. Whereas inhibition of angiogenesis can prevent diseases with excessive vessel growth such as cancer, diabetes retinopathy, and arthritis, stimulation of angiogenesis would be beneficial in the treatment of diseases such as coronary artery disease and critical limb ischemia in diabetes. In this review we highlight the current knowledge on angiogenesis regulation and report on the recent findings in angiogenesis research and clinical studies. We also discuss the potentials, limitations, and challenges within this field of research, in light of the development of new therapeutic strategies for diseases in which angiogenesis plays an important role"
Article at:
http://pharmrev.aspetjournals.org/content/52/2/237.full
Angiogenesis links chronic inflammation with cancer.
Kobayashi H1, Lin PC., 1Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA., 2009
Abstract;
"Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from existing vessels, is tightly linked to chronic inflammation and cancer. Angiogenesis is one of the molecular events bridging the gap between inflammation and cancer. One of the events linking inflammation and cancer is an increase in cellular adhesion molecules that are expressed on the luminal surface of endothelium upon inflammation. Cellular adhesion molecules are involved in leukocyte recruitment and subsequently lead to extravasation of leukocytes to the injury site. These adhesion molecules are known to be shared by some cancer cells and have the ability to contribute to metastasis. Thus, an elevation of these molecules in chronic inflammation may be a risk factor for metastasis. In this chapter, we discuss the method used to determine the adhesion molecules expressed on endothelium, and leukocyte adhesion to endothelium."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19347298
Death by prescription painkiller in World Pharma News, Nicholas B. King, Veronique Fraser, Constantina Boikos, Robin Richardson, and Sam Harper. (2014). 18 JUNE 2014
Article:
"The number of deaths involving commonly prescribed painkillers is higher than the number of deaths by overdose from heroin and cocaine combined, according to researchers at McGill University. In a first-of-its-kind review of existing research, the McGill team has put the spotlight on a major public health problem: the dramatic increase in deaths due to prescribed painkillers, which were involved in more than 16,000 deaths in 2010 in the U.S. alone. Currently, the US and Canada rank #1 and #2 in per capita opioid consumption.
"Prescription painkiller overdoses have received a lot of attention in editorials and the popular press, but we wanted to find out what solid evidence is out there," says Nicholas King, of the Biomedical Ethics Unit in the Faculty of Medicine. In an effort to identify and summarize available evidence, King and his team conducted a systematic review of existing literature, comprehensively surveying the scientific literature and including only reports with quantitative evidence.
"We also wanted to find out why thousands of people in the U.S and Canada are dying from prescription painkillers every year, and why these rates have climbed steadily during the past two decades," says Nicholas King, of the Biomedical Ethics Unit in the Faculty of Medicine. "We found evidence for at least 17 different determinants of increasing opioid-related mortality, mainly, dramatically increased prescription and sales of opioids; increased use of strong, long-acting opioids like Oxycontin and methadone; combined use of opioids and other (licit and illicit) drugs and alcohol; and social and demographic factors."
"We found little evidence that Internet sales of pharmaceuticals and errors by doctors and patients--factors commonly cited in the media -- have played a significant role," Prof. King adds.
The findings point to a complicated "epidemic" in which physicians, users, the health care system, and the social environment all play a role, according to the researchers.
"Our work provides a reliable summary of the possible causes of the epidemic of opioid overdoses, which should be useful for clinicians and policy makers in North America in figuring out what further research needs to be done, and what strategies might or might not be useful in reducing future mortality," says King. "And as efforts are made to increase access to prescription opioids outside of North America, our findings might be useful in preventing other countries from following the same path as the U.S. and Canada.""
Article at:
http://www.worldpharmanews.com/research/2807-death-by-prescription-painkiller
$1000-a-pill hepatitis C drug jolts US health care system in Fox News, no author cited, June 18, 2014
Excerpts:
"Sovaldi, a new pill for hepatitis C, cures the liver-wasting disease in 9 of 10 patients, but treatment can cost more than $90,000.
Leading medical societies recommend the drug as a first-line treatment, and patients are clamoring for it. But insurance companies and state Medicaid programs are gagging on the price. In Oregon, officials propose to limit how many low-income patients can get Sovaldi."
"More than 3 million Americans carry the hepatitis C virus, and many don't realize it. It's a public health concern since the disease can be transmitted by contact with infected blood, and sometimes through sexual activity. Health officials advise all baby boomers to get tested.
The illness is complex, with distinct virus types requiring different treatments. While it progresses gradually, it can ultimately destroy the liver, and transplants average $577,000.
An estimated 15,000 people died from hepatitis C in the U.S. in 2007, when it surpassed AIDS as a cause of death."
"The nation's largest care provider for chronic hepatitis C, the federal Veterans Administration, sees promise. With 175,000 patients, the VA has started more than 1,850 of them on Sovaldi."
"Drug maker Gilead Sciences, Inc., reported Sovaldi sales of $2.3 billion worldwide in just the first three months of this year. Gilead will not disclose its pricing methods, but vice president Gregg Alton said the drug's high cure rate makes it "a real huge value.""
"The California Technology Assessment Forum, a private group that reviews medical treatments, recently voted Sovaldi a "low value," because it would be cost-prohibitive to treat the high number of potentially eligible patients. But after their own assessment, the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases issued clinical guidelines recommending that doctors use Sovaldi as a primary treatment.
Meanwhile, Gilead has a new hepatitis C pill close to approval that will not require interferon use."
Article at:
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/06/18/1000-pill-hepatitis-c-drug-jolts-us-health-care-system/
US ranks lowest in health care survey of developed nations in Fox News, no author cited, Published June 18, 2014
Article:
"In a survey of patients and primary care doctors in 11 industrialized nations, the U.S. health care system ranked last in terms of quality, efficiency, access to care equity and healthy lives, USA Today reported.
The survey, conducted by The Commonwealth Fund, a private foundation that "aims to promote a high performing health care system" in the U.S., utilized questionnaires in addition to data from the World Health Organization and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development to produce rankings among the countries studied.
While the U.S. has the world’s most expensive health care system, this is the fifth year it’s landed at the bottom of the Commonwealth Fund survey, faring worst in measures of “efficiency, equity, and outcomes.”
The U.S. had poor scores on measures of healthy lives, infant mortality, healthy life expectancy at age 60, access to needed services and prompt attention from primary care physicians. On other measures the U.S. fared better, ranking third for “effective care” and also ranking highly on preventative care and quick access to specialists.
The ten other countries included in the survey were Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. The UK ranked highest.
The Commonwealth Fund analysis noted that, unlike the other industrialized countries, the U.S. does not have universal health care. This year’s survey used data from before Affordable Care Act was fully implemented in the U.S.
"Other nations ensure the accessibility of care through universal health systems and through better ties between patients and the physician practices that serve as their medical homes," the fund wrote in its summary."
Article at:
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/06/18/us-ranks-lowest-in-health-care-survey-developed-nations/
U.S. Calls on Europe to Ease Limits on Gene-Altered Food in New York Times, JAMES KANTERJUNE 17, 2014
Excerpts:
"The top American agriculture official on Tuesday called on the European Union to do more to ease restrictions on gene-altered food and feed crops if it hoped to reach a trans-Atlantic trade pact.
“There can’t be a trade agreement without a serious and significant commitment to agriculture,” the official, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, told reporters on Tuesday, a day after an informal meeting with European farm ministers. European consumers “ought to have a choice” whether to use biotech foods, he said."
"The United States has long insisted that there is no scientific evidence of safety risks from using foods and feeds whose genetic makeup have been altered through bioengineering — whether to make them more resistant to pests and drought or to fine-tune their content. But many Europeans are more cautious, and some deride the products as “Frankenfoods” that must remain heavily restricted on farms and in the food chain. European shops tend to carry few foods with gene-altered ingredients because of skepticism among consumers.
Cultivation in Europe is also almost nonexistent. A Monsanto corn variety approved in 1998 is the only gene-altered crop grown in the bloc. Grown mainly in Spain, the variety represented only 1.4 percent of European Union corn production in 2012."
Article at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/18/business/international/us-calls-on-europe-to-ease-limits-on-gene-altered-food.html?ref=health&_r=0
Daily Aspirin Regimen Not Safe for Everyone: FDA
It may cause more harm than good in those who have not experienced heart problems or stroke, Robert Preidt, HealthDay Reporter, May 6, 2014 (HealthDay News)
Article:
"Taking an aspirin a day can help prevent heart attack and stroke in people who have suffered such health crises in the past, but not in people who have never had heart problems, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
"Since the 1990s, clinical data have shown that in people who have experienced a heart attack, stroke or who have a disease of the blood vessels in the heart, a daily low dose of aspirin can help prevent a reoccurrence," Dr. Robert Temple, deputy director for clinical science at the FDA, said in an agency news release.
A low-dose tablet contains 80 milligrams (mg) of aspirin, compared with 325 mg in a regular strength tablet.
However, an analysis of data from major studies does not support the use of aspirin as a preventive medicine in people who have not had a heart attack, stroke or heart problems. In these people, aspirin provides no benefits and puts them at risk for side effects such as dangerous bleeding in the brain or stomach, the FDA said.
Also, there's no evidence that taking aspirin every day is safe and effective for people who have not had heart problems or a stroke but have a family history of heart attack or stroke, or have evidence of arterial disease, Temple said.
He noted that a number of large studies are being conducted to assess the use of aspirin in preventing heart attack and stroke in people with no previous history of heart problems, and that the FDA is monitoring those clinical trials.
Anyone thinking about taking low-dose aspirin needs to discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor, Temple emphasized. It's also important to have your doctor determine the dose and frequency that's appropriate for you.
If your doctor does recommend daily aspirin to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke, closely examine drug labels. Some drugs combine aspirin with other pain relievers or ingredients and should not be used for long-term aspirin therapy, the FDA said in the news release."
Article at:
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20140506/daily-aspirin-regimen-not-safe-for-everyone-fda-warns
E-Cigarette Sources Soaring, Study Finds in Medline Plus, Robert Preidt, Tuesday, June 17, 2014
About 10 new brands, 240 new flavors come out every month; some quickly disappear though
Article:
" MONDAY, June 16, 2014 (HealthDay News) -- Online marketing of electronic cigarettes and flavors has soared in recent years, a new study finds.
"The number of e-cigarette brands sold on the Internet is large and the variety of flavors staggering," Dr. Shu-Hong Zhu, of the University of California, San Diego, department of family and preventive medicine, and colleagues said.
About 10 new brands and more than 240 new flavors appeared online each month during their study, the researchers found.
The investigators analyzed online English language websites marketing e-cigarettes between May to August 2012 and again between December 2013 to January 2014. Of the 288 new e-cigarette brands identified during the first search, 37 had disappeared by the second search. The second search did, however, find another 215 new brands.
In January 2014, there were over 460 different brands of e-cigarettes. Each brand had its own website. There were almost 7,800 different flavors, according to the study in the June 16 online edition of the journal Tobacco Control.
Nearly all brands of e-cigarettes offered menthol and tobacco flavors, the study authors noted. Other popular flavors included fruit, dessert/candy, alcohol/drinks and snacks/meals.
About 10 percent of older and newer e-cigarette brands made direct claims that the products can help smokers quit, Zhu and colleagues said in a journal news release.
It's unclear what impact the rapidly growing e-cigarette market will have on rates of new smokers and attempts to quit. This uncertainty poses "significant challenges to regulatory policy making," the study authors concluded, according to the news release.
In the United States, sales of e-cigarettes are expected to reach $2 billion this year. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently categorized e-cigarettes as a tobacco product, so sales to minors will be banned. However, the ban does not cover online sales, which account for up to half of e-cigarette purchases, the researchers noted.
SOURCE Tobacco Control, news release, June 16, 2014"
Article at:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_146834.html
Can we eat to starve cancer? on YouTube, - William Li
My comments: 20 minute video, well worth the watch, focuses on Angiogenesis. See how anatabine as an angiogenesis inhibitor fits the puzzle, Google 'angiogenesis inhibitor anatabine'
Ex-Goldman director goes to prison, still owes $13.9 million fine in Reuters News, JOSEPH AX AND JONATHAN STEMPEL, NEW YORK Tue Jun 17, 2014
Article:
"(Reuters) - Former Goldman Sachs Group Inc (GS.N) director Rajat Gupta on Tuesday began serving his two-year prison term for insider trading, and lost his challenge to a $13.9 million civil penalty and permanent ban from acting as a public company officer.
Gupta, 65, reported to FMC Devens, a medical facility and satellite camp in Ayer, Massachusetts about 40 miles (64 km) northwest of Boston, a spokesman for the Federal Bureau of Prisons said.
The former global managing director of the McKinsey & Co consulting firm began his term as the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals separately rejected his claim that the fine and officer ban imposed in a separate U.S. Securities and Exchange Commision civil case was excessive.
A three-judge panel of that court concluded that U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff, who oversaw the criminal and civil cases, acted within his discretion in imposing that punishment.
Seth Waxman, a lawyer for Gupta, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. SEC spokesman John Nester declined immediate comment.
A jury convicted Gupta in June 2012 of passing confidential information he learned from Goldman board meetings, including a crucial investment from Warren Buffett, to Raj Rajaratnam, the onetime billionaire founder of the Galleon Group hedge fund.
Gupta is appealing his conviction. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who hears emergency appeals from the 2nd Circuit, last week denied his request to stay free on bail while he appeals.
Rajaratnam is serving an 11-year prison sentence, and is also being housed at Devens. The Supreme Court on Monday refused to hear his appeal of his conviction.
Rengan Rajaratnam, a former Galleon portfolio manager, went on trial on Tuesday in New York on charges that he engaged in insider trading with his older brother.
In his criminal case, Gupta was also ordered to make $6 million in restitution to Goldman and pay a $5 million fine.
Rakoff imposed the officer ban in the civil case despite finding at the criminal sentencing that Gupta was unlikely to commit future crimes.
Waxman had argued to the 2nd Circuit that Rakoff's positions were inconsistent, but the appeals court said the standard in a criminal context was different from that in a civil case.
The case is SEC v. Gupta, 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 13-3062.
Article at:
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/17/us-usa-insidertrading-gupta-idUSKBN0ES1WE20140617
Plain wrong? Here are the facts: cheap smokes are on the rise since plain packaging in THE AUSTRALIAN, Christian Kerr, Reporter; Adam Creighton, Economics Correspondent, Sydney, JUNE 18, 2014
Excerpt:
"ANTI-smoking measures are driving a boom in cheap cigarettes, with smokers buying more cigarettes from the lowest market segment and, industry data suggests, pushing up sales and frustrating health policies.
Neilsen data indicates that 42.3 per cent of all cigarettes now purchased are priced at less than $15 a pack — a rise from 25.6 per cent of the market in 2011 and 35.2 per cent at the end of last year."
Article at:
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/policy/plain-wrong-here-are-the-facts-cheap-smokes-are-on-the-rise-since-plain-packaging/story-fn59nokw-1226958089150#
Merck KGaA terminates MS drug license agreement with Ono at Reuters, FRANKFURT Tue Jun 17, 2014
Article:
"(Reuters) - German drugmaker Merck KGaA agreed with Japan's Ono Pharmaceutical to terminate a license agreement over Ono's experimental multiple sclerosis (MS) drug ceralifimod.
Merck, the maker of MS drug Rebif, said on Tuesday the project did "not meet Merck's threshold for continued investment".
Merck bought worldwide exclusive license rights from Ono for the development and commercialization of ceralifimod outside of Japan, Korea and Taiwan in October 2011.
The drug candidate is currently in the second of three phases typically required for regulatory approval."
Article at:
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/17/us-merck-ono-pharm-idUSKBN0ES0OX20140617?feedType=RSS&feedName=healthNews
Biogen, AbbVie drug slows MS episodes, safety issues recur in Reuters News, Ransdell Pierson; Editing by Nick Zieminski, Jun 16, 2014
Excerpts:
"(Reuters) - A drug approved to prevent rejection of transplanted kidneys significantly reduced relapses of multiple sclerosis in a late stage-trial sponsored by Biogen Idec and AbbVie Inc, but serious infections and potential liver toxicity continued to cloud the drug's future."
"Patients taking daclizumab, which is meant to tame the immune system by blocking a protein called the CD25 receptor, had 45 percent fewer annual relapses than those receiving Avonex. Moreover, patients taking daclizumab had 54 percent fewer new or enlarging brain and spinal lesions at week 96 of the study, compared to those taking Avonex, thereby meeting a secondary goal of the study.
The overall incidence of side effects was similar in both patient groups. But there was a two-fold higher incidence of serious infections among those taking daclizumab, at 4 percent, as well as a two-fold higher incidence of elevated liver enzymes - a potential marker for liver toxicity."
Article at:
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/16/us-biogen-abbvie-ms-idUSKBN0ER1KR20140616?feedType=RSS&feedName=healthNews
Nicotine in e-cigarettes and smoking cessation devices 'carcinogenic in Medical News Today, James McIntosh, 16 June 2014
My comment: Anatabloc
Excerpt:
"The American Cancer Society (ACS) report that about half of all Americans who maintain a smoking habit will die as a result of it. Around 480,000 people in the US die every year due to illnesses related to tobacco use - more than alcohol, car accidents, suicide, AIDS, homicide and illegal drugs combined."
"The patterns of mutation found were similar to those observed in cells experiencing oxidative stress, a known precursor to cancer. The authors conclude that nicotine exposure can adversely affect genes by inducing mutations, and over the period of significant exposure may contribute to increased cancer incidence"
"Considering the carcinogenic risk that nicotine poses, it may be worth smokers reconsidering the methods that they use to try and quit smoking. Recently, Medical News Today reported on a study that examined how effective e-cigarettes were at helping smokers quit. It yielded the following figures:
20% of participants trying to quit by using e-cigarettes were successful
10.1% of participants trying to quit by using other nicotine replacement therapies were successful
15.4% of participants trying to quit without assistance were successful.
Although e-cigarettes were the most successful method of achieving smoking cessation, these results suggest that avoiding nicotine replacement therapies altogether would not automatically decrease the likelihood of quitting. In fact, avoiding products such as skin patches and gum might even increase the likelihood."
Article at:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/278265.php
Before You Drink That Soda, Read This in Forbes Health, David DiSalvo, 6/15/2014
My comment: A coke is Anatabloc's best friend.
Article:
"The title of this article (if titles could be ridiculously long) should probably read, “Before you drink that soda, energy drink, fake fruit juice or any other sugar-loaded beverage, read this.” The average American drinks 45 gallons of these beverages every year, and new research shows that we’re loading our bodies with an even worse combination of unhealthy ingredients than we think.
A popular line repeated by the High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) industry is “sugar is sugar,” meaning that HFCS is negligibly different than natural sugar, also known as sucrose. Sucrose is composed of equal parts glucose—the form of sugar the body uses for fuel—and fructose—a form of sugar processed in the liver and converted into fat. But a study conducted by the Childhood Obesity Research Center (CORC) at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California claims this just isn’t so.
In fact, beverages containing HFCS, including Coca-Cola , Pepsi, Dr Pepper, Mountain Dew, and Sprite, all contain 50% more fructose than glucose.
“We found what ends up being consumed in these beverages is neither natural sugar nor HFCS, but instead a fructose-intense concoction that could increase one’s risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease and liver disease,” said Michael Goran, Ph.D., director of the CORC and lead author of the study. “The human body isn’t designed to process this form of sugar at such high levels. Unlike glucose, which serves as fuel for the body, fructose is processed almost entirely in the liver where it is converted to fat.”
The research team’s analysis of beverages made with HFCS showed a fructose to glucose ratio of 60:40 — significantly higher than the equal proportions found in sucrose and challenging the oft repeated claim that “sugar is sugar.”
Beverages tested in the study were chosen based on their popularity and their sugar composition was analyzed in three different laboratories using three different methods. The results were consistent across the different labs and methods: beverages made with HFCS contained 60% fructose and 40% glucose.
Equally troubling was the finding that some of the products claiming to contain “natural sugar” (sucrose)—including Sierra Mist and Gatorade—actually contained more than 50% fructose. This finding suggests that these products may actually be made with HFCS, which isn’t disclosed on their labels.
“It’s important for us to have a more accurate understanding of what we’re actually drinking, including specific label information on the types of sugars,” said Goran.
Why does this matter?
Allow the statistics to tell the tale: Americans consume more HFCS than any other nation. Our consumption of HFCS has doubled in the last three decades. In the same time period, the rate of Type 2 Diabetes has tripled.
Previous research has shown that Americans consume about 55 lbs of HFCS per year. For a visual on that, imagine four shelves in a grocery store each containing about 14 one pound bags of granulated HFCS each. If that seems like a horrendous amount to consume, even over the course of a year, that’s because it is.
Additional research has shown that consuming diet drinks doesn’t really help our plight. The best course of action is to stop drinking sugary and fake sugar drinks altogether."
Article at:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2014/06/15/before-you-drink-that-soda-read-this/?ss=pharma
Retiree health-care tab: $220,000, says Fidelity at Market Watch, Elizabeth O'Brien, June 12, 2014,
Article:
"It’s that time of year again: time for Fidelity’s annual reminder of just how much it costs to grow old. Okay, maybe they don’t phrase it quite that way. But that’s the subtext of the Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate.
iStockRetirement healthcare tally: $220,000
This year’s projection is that couples retiring at age 65 are expected to incur $220,000 in health care costs on average during their retirement years. This figure is unchanged from last year, although that’s hardly a cause for celebration for your average pre-retiree. Most people haven’t saved $220,000 period, much less earmarked that amount for health-care costs alone.
Fidelity’s tally doesn’t include nursing home or other long-term care costs. Medicare does not cover these expenses, and they can be devastating for families. The median annual cost of a private nursing home room is $87,600, according to Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey 2014.
The study assumes that the hypothetical retiring couple has traditional Medicare. The $220,000 total includes monthly premium payments for Parts B and D, plus Medicare cost-sharing requirements–beneficiaries have to pay 20% of most of their doctor bills, along with co-payments and deductibles.
While health care inflation has been moderate in recent years, it may be picking up. Health care spending increased a substantial 9.1% in the first quarter of this year, versus 5.6% in the fourth quarter of 2013, according to estimates by the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Next year, Fidelity’s hypothetical couple may be on the hook for even more.
Article at:
http://blogs.marketwatch.com/encore/2014/06/12/retiree-health-care-tab-220000-says-fidelity/
Re Osteoarthritis: Effects of dietary supplementation with the solanaceae plant alkaloid anatabine on joint pain and stiffness: results from an internet-based survey study. at PubMed, Lanier RK1, Gibson KD, Cohen AE, Varga M., 1Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Gloucester, Massachusetts, USA. October 2013
My comments: Especially note the efficacy charts (5)
Abstract:
"Anatabine is a Solanaceae plant family alkaloid marketed in the United States as a dietary supplement. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in vivo and in vitro, and may be useful for musculoskeletal aches and pains. The purpose of this internet-based survey study was to provide more information about anatabine users who report benefits for joint pain or stiffness. Of the 282 survey respondents, 232 (82%) reported a benefit from anatabine supplementation for one or more joint pain conditions, most commonly the knee, wrists/hands/fingers, shoulder, and back, most often due to osteoarthritis or injury to the joint. Mean scores of joint pain and stiffness were significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced after starting anatabine supplementation, and for most respondents joint pain was virtually eliminated. Around 90% of all individuals rated the effect of anatabine supplementation as good or excellent for joint pain, stiffness, functionality, and overall effects. These results provide evidence that anatabine supplementation can lead to substantial improvement of musculoskeletal aches, pains, and stiffness, and can provide benefits in some individuals for various medical conditions in
multiple joint locations.
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24250235
Explore the Latest Progress on Medicines in Development at Pharma, no author cited, no date
My comments: Each topic has a expandable link with a wealth of information and statistics on each subject matter.
Featured Report:
Mental Health
Alzheimer's
Arthritis
Asthma
Biotechnology and Biologics
Cancer
Children
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Diabetes
Heart Disease and Stroke
HIV/AIDS
Infectious Diseases
Leukemia and Lymphoma
Neurological Disorders
New Drug Approvals
Older Americans
Article at:
http://www.phrma.org/innovation/meds-in-development
Hi Nuke, I just referenced their website wherein they state 'Research Targets':
"Research Area Targets
Osteoarthritis
Ulcerative Colitis
Psoriasis
Smoking Cessation
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis"
And 'Pipeline Progress/Candidate Chart' lists the same five with their current development. I didn't say this was the target they would start off with but it seems to me they are interested in Psoriasis otherwise they would not have started the testing on Psoriasis. Again maybe you know more than I. I can only believe what I see on their website.
PUBLICATIONS at Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals website is now online:
Anatabine Supplementation Decreases Thyroglobulin Antibodies in Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Autoimmune (Hashimoto's) Thyroiditis: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM Volume 99, Issue #1, October 31, 2013
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Anatabine Via Inhibition of STAT3 Phosphorylation
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOLOGY Volume 698, Issues 1–3, January 5, 2013, Pages 145–153
Amelioration of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Anatabine
PLOS ONE January 30, 2013
Anatabine Lowers Alzheimer's Aß Production In Vitro and In Vivo
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOLOGY Volume 670, Issues 2–3, November 30, 2011, Pages 384–391
Anatabine Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Thyroiditis
ENDOCRINOLOGY Volume 153, Issue #9, September 1, 2012
Nicotine-Like Behavioral Effects of the Minor Tobacco Alkaloids Nornicotine, Anabasine, and Anatabine in Male Rodents
EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY February 9, 2014
Anatabine Significantly Decreases Nicotine Self-Administration
EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY February 1, 2014
Publications at:
http://www.rockcreekpharmaceuticals.com/article_1.php
An Immune System and Thyroid Upside for Tobacco? in National Academy of Hypothyroidism, Posted on March 7, 2013 by Mary Shomon
My comments: Read the threads posted because followers discuss their experiences using Anatabloc with Multiple Sclerosis, Psoriasis, Hashimoto's Syndrome, and Arthritis.
Excerpts:
"The thinking behind the formulation of Anatabloc is that chronic low-level inflammation contributes to many disorders such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, asthma, autoimmune thyroid disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, so Anatabloc is marketed as a potential preventative treatment for these diseases.
"The Roskamp Institute conducted research using anatabine in the areas of Alzheimer’s disease, gastroenterology, rheumatology, cancer, and autoimmune diseases such as lupus and cardio-atherogenesis. Meanwhile, Johns Hopkins is already researching anatabine’s potential in the treatment of thyroid disease."
Article/posts at:
http://nahypothyroidism.org/an-immune-system-and-thyroid-upside-for-tobacco/
anatabine, Anatabloc fights inflammation in Topix Inflammation,
Posted in the Inflammation Forum, sandwichfarmer, Henderson, NV, Feb 4, 2013
Post:
"To start off, I am a 25 year female that has had psoriasis for the past 14 years. It started as small patches but continued to spread over the years. I mostly have spots on my elbows, in and behind my ears, scalp, and torso. I have tried many topical steroids and creams to reduce the inflammation and irritation with little to no success. I haven't had any sort of injections or oral treatment, but I am trying to stay away from those.
I started taking Anatabloc in March of 2012 and I can say from first hand experience that it does help a great deal. The large spots that I have had for years have reduced in size and have significantly less scaling. What scales are there are really thin and not as noticeable. What is also really interesting is that the spots don't look as "mad" or irritated as they use to, but are instead quietly diminishing. Now this being said, this isn't an overnight process. It took several weeks for me to even notice a difference and months for the spots to reduce in size. Some of my larger spots I have had for years, and I am happy to see them diminish in size rather than grow. Where I noticed the most significant change is new spots of irritation simply do not exist. During the winter months I normally have a pretty significant outbreak and so far this winter, nothing.
One thing that is also incredibly interesting, it may or may not be related, but when I was 17 I was diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse. I also had endocarditis at one point. When I went to my cardiologist in December of 2012 for a check up. The valve was no longer prolapsing, or folding backward. After several tests, it was determined undetectable. Interesting, but like I said it may or may not be related. The only thing that has changed in that time span, was taking Anatabloc.
Best of luck to everyone, I hope this helps to some degree."
Post at:
http://www.topix.com/forum/health/inflammation/T3FRDHNLG0GPEIB21
My comments:
Psoriasis is one of the five areas RCPI is interested in.
California city to consider taxing soda to combat obesity in Reuters News, JENNIFER CHAUSSEE, Wed Jun 11, 2014
Excerpt:
"(Reuters) - An effort to combat obesity by placing an extra tax on sugary drinks was proposed by the California city of Berkeley on Tuesday, bringing a proposal similar to others that have failed in cities across the U.S. one step closer to the November ballot.
Officials in the liberal college town on Tuesday evening set July 1 for a vote on whether to include such a measure on the citywide ballot after a survey of 500 likely voters showed majority support.
"Our residents are highly educated on this issue and highly supportive of any measure that can help fight child onset diabetes and other tragic, preventable and costly diet-related illnesses," said Martin Bourque, who directs the Berkeley Ecology Center, which has campaigned to get the soda tax measure on this autumn's ballot.
A similar measure is under consideration in nearby San Francisco."
Article at:
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/11/us-usa-california-sodatax-idUSKBN0EM00F20140611?feedType=RSS&feedName=healthNews
Anatabine significantly decreases nicotine self-administration at PubMed, Mello NK, Fivel PA, Kohut SJ, Caine SB., McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School., February 2014
Abstract:
Nicotine addiction is associated with many lethal disorders (cancer, cardiovascular and pulmonary disease), and more effective medications to aid smoking cessation are urgently needed. Anatabine is 1 of the most abundant minor tobacco alkaloids, but relatively little is known about its interactions with the abuse-related effects of nicotine. The acute effects of anatabine or saline on nicotine- and food-maintained responding were examined in 7 rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta). Nicotine (0.01 mg/kg/inj, base) and banana-flavored food pellets (1 g) were available under a second-order schedule (FR 2 [VR 16:S]). Anatabine or saline injections were administered 15 min before the 11:00 a.m. food self-administration session began. Anatabine (0.18-3.2 mg/kg, IM) dose-dependently reduced nicotine self-administration (0.01 mg/kg/inj) (p = .036-0.0003). Food-maintained responding was decreased only at the highest dose of anatabine (3.2 mg/kg; p = .003). Each monkey returned to baseline levels of nicotine self-administration after anatabine treatment, and there was no evidence of catheter malfunction. Next, the effects of anatabine and saline on the nicotine dose-effect curve (0.001-0.1 mg/kg/inj) were evaluated. Anatabine (0.32 and 1.0 mg/kg, IM) decreased the peak of the nicotine dose-effect curve (p < .001 - p < .0001), with no significant effect on food-maintained responding. The abuse liability of anatabine also was examined, and monkeys did not self-administer anatabine (0.0032-0.32 mg/kg/inj) above saline levels. These findings are consistent with anatabine's effects on nicotine self-administration in rats (Caine et al., 2014). These data suggest that anatabine could be an effective agonist medication for treatment of nicotine addiction.
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24490707
My comments:
Smoking Cessation is one of five target applications for RCPI
Arthritis Basics at WebMD, no author cited, no date
Article:
"What Is Arthritis?
The word "arthritis" means "joint inflammation." Inflammation is one of the body's natural reactions to disease or injury, and includes swelling, pain, and stiffness. Inflammation that lasts for a very long time or recurs, as in arthritis, can lead to tissue damage.
A joint is where two or more bones come together, such as the hip or knee. The bones of a joint are covered with a smooth, spongy material called cartilage, which cushions the bones and allows the joint to move without pain. The joint is lined by a thin film of tissue called the synovium. The synovium's lining produces a slippery fluid called synovial fluid that nourishes the joint and helps reduce friction. Strong bands of tissue, called ligaments, connect the bones and help keep the joint stable. Muscles and tendons also support the joints and enable you to move.
With arthritis, an area in or around a joint becomes inflamed, causing pain, stiffness and, sometimes, difficulty moving. Some types of arthritis also affect other parts of the body, such as the skin and internal organs.
Types of Arthritis
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. Some of the more common types include:
Osteoarthritis. This is the most common type of arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage covering the end of the bones gradually wears away. Without the protection of the cartilage, the bones begin to rub against each other and the resulting friction leads to pain and swelling. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, but most often affects the hands and weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hip and facet joints (in the spine). Osteoarthritis often occurs as the cartilage breaks down, or degenerates, with age or overuse. For this reason, osteoarthritis is sometimes called degenerative joint disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-lasting disease that can affect joints in any part of the body except the lower back and most commonly involves the hands, wrists, and knees. With rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system -- the body's defense system against disease -- mistakenly attacks itself and causes the joint lining to swell. The inflammation then spreads to the surrounding tissues, and can eventually damage cartilage and bone. In more severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis can affect other areas of the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, and nerves.
Gout. Gout is a painful condition that occurs when the body cannot eliminate a natural substance called uric acid. The excess uric acid forms needle-like crystals in the joints that cause swelling and severe pain. Gout most often affects the big toe, knee, and wrist joints.
What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
Different types of arthritis have different symptoms and the symptoms vary in severity from person to person. Osteoarthritis does not generally cause any symptoms outside the joint. Symptoms of other types of arthritis may include fatigue, fever, a rash, and the signs of joint inflammation, including:
Pain
Swelling
Stiffness
Tenderness
Redness
Warmth
What Causes Arthritis?
There are many different types of arthritis and the cause of most types is not known. It's likely that there are many different causes. Researchers are examining the role of genetics (heredity) and lifestyle behaviors in the development of arthritis.
Although the exact cause of arthritis may not be known, there are several risk factors for arthritis. (A risk factor is a trait or behavior that increases a person's chance of developing a disease or predisposes a person to a certain condition.) Risk factors for arthritis include:
Age. The risk of developing arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, increases with age.
Gender. In general, arthritis occurs more frequently in women than in men.
Obesity. Being overweight puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints, increasing wear and tear, and increasing the risk of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis.
Work factors. Some jobs that require repetitive movements or heavy lifting can stress the joints and/or cause an injury, which can lead to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis.
How Common Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is very common. It has been estimated that as many as 70 million Americans -- or about one in three -- have some form of arthritis or joint pain. It is a major cause of lost work time and serious disability for many people. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, affects more than 20 million Americans. Arthritis affects people of all ages, but is more common in older adults.
How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Osteoarthritis is typically diagnosed with a complete medical history, including a description of your symptoms and a physical exam. Imaging techniques -- such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) -- are sometimes used to show the condition of the joints. If other types of arthritis are suspected, lab tests on blood, urine, and/or joint fluid may be helpful in determining the type of arthritis. These tests also can help rule out other diseases as the cause of your symptoms.
How Is Arthritis Treated?
The goal of arthritis treatment is to provide pain relief and increase joint mobility and strength. Treatment options include medication, exercise, heat/cold compresses, use of joint protection, and surgery. Your treatment plan may involve more than one of these options.
What Is the Outlook for People With Arthritis?
With early diagnosis, most types of arthritis can be managed and the pain and disability minimized. In addition, early diagnosis and treatment may be able to prevent tissue damage caused by arthritis. Early, aggressive treatment is particularly important for rheumatoid arthritis in order to help prevent further damage and disability down the road.
Can Arthritis Be Prevented?
Although it may not be possible to prevent arthritis, there are steps to take to reduce your risk of developing the disease and to slow or prevent permanent joint damage. These include:
Maintaining a healthy weight. Excess weight puts strain on your joints.
Exercising. Keeping your muscles strong can help protect and support your joints.
Using joint-protecting devices and techniques at work. Proper lifting and posture can help protect your muscles and joints.
Eating a healthy diet. A well balanced, nutritious diet can help strengthen your bones and muscles.
Article at:
http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-basics?page=2
Effects of Dietary Supplementation with the Solanaceae Plant Alkaloid Anatabine on Joint Pain and Stiffness: Results from an Internet-Based Survey Study in National Institute of Health, PMC,
Ryan K. Lanier, Kainen D. Gibson, Amy E. Cohen, and Maria Varga, June 2013
Abstract:
"Anatabine is a Solanaceae plant family alkaloid marketed in the United States as a dietary supplement. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in vivo and in vitro, and may be useful for musculoskeletal aches and pains. The purpose of this internet-based survey study was to provide more information about anatabine users who report benefits for joint pain or stiffness. Of the 282 survey respondents, 232 (82%) reported a benefit from anatabine supplementation for one or more joint pain conditions, most commonly the knee, wrists/hands/fingers, shoulder, and back, most often due to osteoarthritis or injury to the joint. Mean scores of joint pain and stiffness were significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced after starting anatabine supplementation, and for most respondents joint pain was virtually eliminated. Around 90% of all individuals rated the effect of anatabine supplementation as good or excellent for joint pain, stiffness, functionality, and overall effects. These results provide evidence that anatabine supplementation can lead to substantial improvement of musculoskeletal aches, pains, and stiffness, and can provide benefits in some individuals for various medical conditions in multiple joint locations."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3825642/
Global osteoarthritis drug market set to grow to $5.5 billion with a CAGR of 1.5% by 2016 in the Pharma Letter, no author cited, April 2010
Article:
"The global osteoarthritis therapeutics market was estimated to be worth $5 billion in 2009 and is expected to grow to $5.5 billion with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.5% by 2016, according to a new report from GlobalData.
This growth is primarily attributed to the aging population, resulting in a high incidence and prevalence of the disease, and also pipeline product launches such as SMC021 and PF-4383119. Globally, the USA remains the largest market for osteoarthritis therapeutics, and was valued at $2.6 billion in 2009. It is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 1.6% over the next seven years to reach $2.9 billion by 2016.
Increase in disease population to drive the sector
The prevalence rate for osteoarthritis globally was 10.1% or approximately 75.8 million people. It is expected to increase from 75.8 million in 2009 to 82 million in 2016. The main reason for this is the high incidence rate in the aging population. Osteoarthritis is mainly prevalent in elderly persons. A significant increase in osteoarthritis incidence has occurred over the past few years. In addition a rapid increase in the obese population will also contribute to the increase of the incidence of osteoarthritis.
Low treatment seeking rate is major barrier
The poor treatment seeking rate is one of the main barriers to the growth of the market. The early detection of osteoarthritis can improve patients quality of life but there is often a lack of awareness about the disease, says GlobalData. Therefore, in 2009, the treated population was only slightly more than a quarter of the diseased population. However, the treatment seeking population is expected to grow at a slow rate during the period from 2009 to 2016, it concludes.
Article at:
http://www.thepharmaletter.com/article/global-osteoarthritis-drug-market-set-to-grow-to-5-5-billion-with-a-cagr-of-1-5-by-2016
Role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis: latest findings and interpretations
Jeremy Sokolovecorresponding author and Christin M. Lepus,
April 2013
Abstract"
"Osteoarthritis (OA) has traditionally been classified as a noninflammatory arthritis; however, the dichotomy between inflammatory and degenerative arthritis is becoming less clear with the recognition of a plethora of ongoing immune processes within the OA joint and synovium. Synovitis is defined as inflammation of the synovial membrane and is characteristic of classical inflammatory arthritidies. Increasingly recognized is the presence of synovitis in a significant proportion of patients with primary OA, and based on this observation, further studies have gone on to implicate joint inflammation and synovitis in the pathogenesis of OA. However, clinical OA is not one disease but a final common pathway secondary to many predisposing factors, most notably age, joint trauma, altered biomechanics, and obesity. How such biochemical and mechanical processes contribute to the progressive joint failure characteristic of OA is tightly linked to the interplay of joint damage, the immune response to perceived damage, and the subsequent state of chronic inflammation resulting in propagation and progression toward the phenotype recognized as clinical OA. This review will discuss a wide range of evolving data leading to our current hypotheses regarding the role of immune activation and inflammation in OA onset and progression. Although OA can affect any joint, most commonly the knee, hip, spine, and hands, this review will focus primarily on OA of the knee as this is the joint most well characterized by epidemiologic, imaging, and translational studies investigating the association of inflammation with OA."
Article at:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3638313/
My comments:
Osteoarthritis is listed as a RCPI target application.
Alzheimer's compound gradually lowers amyloid in mice brains in Fierce Pharma, June 3, 2014 | By Emily Mullin
Excerpts:
"The researchers believe that a drug like 2-PMAP that could be taken daily over many years to gradually lower the production of amyloid ß may be an effective prevention strategy for Alzheimer's.
"What we want in an Alzheimer's preventive is a drug that modestly lowers amyloid ß and is also safe for long term use," says Dr. Martin Sadowski, associate professor of neurology, psychiatry, and biochemistry and molecular pharmacolog"
"Dr. Sadowski's team came across 2-PMAP after screening a library of compounds and finding that, even at low, nontoxic concentrations, the molecule significantly reduced production of amyloid ß's mother protein, known as amyloid precursor protein (APP), in test cells and lowered amyloid beta levels by 50% or more.
The findings appear online in the journal Annals of Neurology."
My Comments: Sounds like Anatabine Citrate?
Article at:
http://www.fiercebiotechresearch.com/story/alzheimers-compound-gradually-lowers-amyloid-mice-brains/2014-06-03#ixzz34Km15C8W
Subscribe at FierceBiotech Research
Inflammation and Flossing? See short Dr Gupta video at:
http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/health/2014/06/04/living-to-100-dr-sanjay-gupta-flossing.cnn.html
Flu and People with Asthma at CDC, Center for Disease Control, no Author, September 2013
Excerpt:
"What is Asthma?
Asthma is a lung disease that is caused by chronic inflammation of the airways. It is one of the most common long-term diseases of children, but adults can have asthma, too. Asthma attacks occur when the lung airways become swollen and tighten due to airway inflammation. Asthma attacks can be caused by “triggers” such as airway infections, allergy particles, chemical irritants, and air pollution. During an attack, people with asthma experience symptoms such as wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and nighttime or early morning coughing. Often, asthma attacks can be prevented by limiting one’s exposure to triggers and by properly using asthma medications.
People with Asthma Are at Increased Risk of Severe Disease and Complications from Flu
Though people with asthma are not more likely to get the flu, influenza (flu) can be more serious for people with asthma, even if their asthma is mild or their symptoms are well-controlled by medication. This is because people with asthma have swollen and sensitive airways, and influenza can cause further inflammation of the airways and lungs. Influenza infection in the lungs can trigger asthma attacks and a worsening of asthma symptoms. It can also lead to pneumonia and other acute respiratory diseases. In fact, adults and children with asthma are more likely to develop pneumonia after getting sick with the flu than people who do not have asthma. Asthma is the most common medical condition among adults and kids hospitalized with the flu."
Article at:
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/asthma/index.htm?s_cid=cs_748
Sharp increase in diabetes warning in WebMD, Peter Russell, WebMD UK Health News, 10th June 2014
Excerpts:
" – Experts are predicting a large rise in the number of people with diabetes over the coming years unless urgent preventative measures are taken.
New research has identified a significant increase in the number of people in England who have prediabetes – a precursor for developing the full blown condition.
Prediabetes rates among English adults rose from about 12% in 2003 to around 35% in 2011, according to the findings. Those from poorer backgrounds were found particularly at risk.
'Exceptionally surprising'
"The rapid rise was exceptionally surprising and suggests that if something doesn't happen, there is going to be a huge increase in the prevalence of diabetes," says study lead author Arch Mainous of the University of Florida.
The study cautions that current hopes for containing the rise in diabetes is pinned on voluntary codes of practice adopted by the food industry, but says this may not be enough to ward off a diabetes epidemic.
The Florida researchers worked with a team from the University of Leicester to come up with the findings and warn that only major changes in diet, lifestyle and medication can prevent many more people getting diabetes in the future.
Article at:
http://www.webmd.boots.com/diabetes/news/20140610/increase-in-prediabetes
Diabetes and Inflammation at WebMD:
"People with type 2 diabetes don't produce enough insulin or their bodies can't use the insulin adequately. Insulin is a hormone that is made by cells in the pancreas. It controls the amount of sugar in the blood.
Insulin may also have an impact on tissue in the body. Its effects on tissue are influenced by many factors, including obesity and the accumulation of fat around the belly and on major organs in the abdomen. The fat cells can produce chemicals that lead to inflammation.
Researchers discovered that in people with type 2 diabetes, cytokine levels are elevated inside fat tissue. Their conclusion: Fat causes continuous (chronic), low levels of abnormal inflammation that alters insulin's action and contributes to the disease.
As type 2 diabetes starts to develop, the body becomes less sensitive to insulin and the resulting insulin resistance also leads to inflammation. A vicious cycle can result, with more inflammation causing more insulin resistance and vice versa. Blood sugar levels creep higher and higher, eventually resulting in type 2 diabetes."
Article at:
http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/guide/inflammation-and-diabetes
Daily Aspirin Regimen Not Safe for Everyone: FDA
It may cause more harm than good in those who have not experienced heart TUESDAY, May 6, 2014
Excerpt:
(HealthDay News) -- Taking an aspirin a day can help prevent heart attack and stroke in people who have suffered such health crises in the past, but not in people who have never had heart problems, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
"Since the 1990s, clinical data have shown that in people who have experienced a heart attack, stroke or who have a disease of the blood vessels in the heart, a daily low dose of aspirin can help prevent a reoccurrence," Dr. Robert Temple, deputy director for clinical science at the FDA, said in an agency news release.
A low-dose tablet contains 80 milligrams (mg) of aspirin, compared with 325 mg in a regular strength tablet.
However, an analysis of data from major studies does not support the use of aspirin as a preventive medicine in people who have not had a heart attack, stroke or heart problems. In these people, aspirin provides no benefits and puts them at risk for side effects such as dangerous bleeding in the brain or stomach, the FDA said.problems or stroke in WebMD, Robert Preidt HealthDay Reporter,
Article at:
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20140506/daily-aspirin-regimen-not-safe-for-everyone-fda-warns